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Occupational Medicine 2004;54:42-46
© Society of Occupational Medicine 2004; all rights reserved

Occupational exposure and health problems in small-scale industry workers in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: a situation analysis

L. M. B. Rongo1,2,3, F. Barten2, G. I. Msamanga1, D. Heederik3 and W. M. V. Dolmans2

1 Community Health Department, Muhimbili University College of Health Sciences, Tanzania
2 Nijmegen Institute for International Health (NIIH), University of Nijmegen, The Netherlands
3 Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Division of Environmental and Occupational Health, Utrecht University, The Netherlands

Background Workers in informal small-scale industries (SSI) in developing countries involved in welding, spray painting, woodwork and metalwork are exposed to various hazards with consequent risk to health.

Aim To assess occupational exposure and health problems in SSI in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Methods Focused group discussions (FGD) were conducted among SSI workers. Participants were assessed for exposure to occupational and environmental hazards, the use of protective equipment and health complaints by interview. The findings were discussed with participants and potential interventions identified.

Results Three hundred and ten workers were interviewed (response rate 98%). There was a high level (>90%) of self-reported exposure to either dust, fumes, noise or sunlight in certain occupational groups. There was low reported use of personal protective equipment. There was a high level of self-reported occupational health problems, particularly amongst welders and metalworkers. Workers reported their needs as permanent workplaces, information on work related hazards, water and sanitation, and legislation for SSI.

Conclusions In SSI in Tanzania, our study suggests that workers have high levels of exposure to multiple health hazards and that use of protective equipment is poor. This group of workers warrants improved occupational health and safety provision.

Keywords      Environmental health; informal sector; occupational health; small-scale industries; Tanzania

Received       12 November 2002
Revised          7 July 2003
Accepted       16 October 2003

Correspondence to: Dr L. M. B. Rongo, Community Health Department, Muhimbili University College of Health Sciences, PO Box 65015, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.Tel: +255 22 150503; fax: +255 22 2153114; e-mail: rongolmb{at}yahoo.com


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